SaGa Scarlet Grace: Ambitions - RPG of the Year 2019
I certainly didn’t expect I’d be writing something like this when I first sat down to play SaGa Scarlet Grace: Ambitions earlier this month, but it seems appropriate that a game which relishes so much in the surprise would come out of left field to sweep our hearts away. 2019 was an especially tough year for Scarlet Grace to shine in - with such juggernauts as Fire Emblem, The Legend of Heroes, and more all vying for the top spot come the year’s conclusion. In the end, it’s Scarlet Grace’s emphasis on freedom of progression, arguably the best turn-based battle system to grace the genre in years (if not of all-time), and its unapologetically unorthodox world design that help it stand out from the crowd.
Make no mistake – the decision to axe “proper” dungeons and towns was a gamble large enough that, if the evolving world that was included in their place wasn’t executed well enough, could have spelled disaster. Instead, we’ve been treated to a world that well and truly feels alive in its own unique way – despite the game’s clearly meager budget.
SaGa Scarlet Grace is a daring, innovative take on the genre, that exudes confidence from start to finish. While its quirks are sure to drive some players away, those that are able to accept its unconventional mechanics are unlikely to find an RPG nearly as memorable, or captivating, among its contemporaries. Whether it’s the continually evolving map, the subtle yet detailed worldbuilding, or the tactical and engaging battle system – there’s truly nothing else quite like Scarlet Grace.
[James Galizio]
